the right equipment
The Independent Living Centre WA has released a new free app , Equip Myself , that aims to empower Australians with disability by supporting them to identify assistive equipment and technology options that could assist them with daily tasks and to achieve their goals . technology in their lives . Tayla is a great example of this .
Attending secondary college and living with her family in Perth , Tayla - who has cerebral palsy - has a passion for drama and loves animals , horse riding and swimming . me . I like that I can be at eye level when talking to my friends and I can reach the books I want at the library .
“ Standing up means I am also able to cook in classes at school and in the kitchen at home as I can reach the bench .”
Equip Myself provides users with easy access to information about the wide range of equipment and technology options available .
Through a virtual world , people can explore equipment and technologies in the environments in which they would be used such as the kitchen , bathroom , garden , at work , in the study , at the beach or out and about in the community .
People are also able to read real life stories about how Western Australians with disability use innovative assistive
“ I use a power wheelchair that adjusts so I can move into a standing position ,” she said .
“ This is great for me as I tire when using my walker for too long and it allows me to put weight on my legs and develop my muscles . I use my wheelchair in my drama performances and move myself in to the correct positions on stage .
“ Being able to move independently and stand up has made me more confident and it means I can speak louder so the audience can hear
Tayla also uses a special piece of gym equipment , a walker , dictation software on her laptop and wheelchair friendly desks at her school .
“ My goal is to study at university in paediatrics or media ,” Tayla said . “ These assistive technologies have helped me be more independent and to continue what I love to do in life – be me .”
People can use Equip Myself as a planning tool , and can create their own profile and share their favourite equipment items with their support team . The app links to NED , the Australian National Equipment Database , which contains impartial information about over 11,000 assistive technology and equipment products available nationwide .
Equip Myself is a free tablet app and is available on the App Store and Google PlayTM now .
Tayla uses assistive equipment and technology to help her study at uni .
The Independent Living Centre WA helps people to choose and access equipment , technology and services for their independence , safety and wellbeing .
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